PLEASE HELP!

[Cayuga5391]

Today I went to go look at my 3 ducks (they are 8 weeks old) and I noticed my cayuga was laying with his neck on the ground. I picked him up and noticed his eyes appeared as if they have cataracts, very milky looking. We discovered the cayuga is completely blind when we brought him inside to our large brooder. My husband and I went to back to the run to look at the other ducks and realized that they also were not themselves and seemed very lethargic. So we brought them to the inside brooder too. We then discovered that even though they don't have what looks like catracts on there eyes they both are also blind. All three will drink water but only one will eat. I am very scared for my babies. Please if anyone knows what this is. Also my ducks are in a run with 6 8 week old chickens who all seem incredibly healthy.

 

[Amiga]

Did they possibly get into anything rotten? How long had it been since you saw them?

My first thoughts are botulism or poisoning. Is there rat poison set out anywhere?

Consider doing a flush followed with a charcoal slurry.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/700526/flushes-for-aiding-in-toxin-removal#post_9508213

If you can get them to a vet right now, that would be good (I know it may not be possible).

 

[Amiga]

@needlessjunk any other thoughts or insights?

 

[Amiga]

@Cayuga5391

I need to turn in. Please keep us posted.

 

[Cayuga5391]

Thank you I will do the flushes. Today was the first day I really noticed them being sick but now looking back they did seem more lethargic than usual couple days before but at the time I just didnt think much of it. The only thing that I can think that could have made them sick is that they drink the water from their kiddie pool and it hadn't been changed in about 5 out 6 days. I feel so bad do you think that is it?

 

[Cayuga5391]

Two of the ducks have died. It is so sad. The one that is alive is eating and drinking but pooping green. We are giving her epison salts, pedialite(for hydration),yogurt and honey and we did a charcoal slurry. Is there anything ems we can do? Pray for my little duck I hope she makes it.

 

[HeritageGoose13]

They should not be allowed to drink stagnant water, that can make them sick, though I don't know if that would make them blind. Either way I hope the third duck makes it.

 

[Amiga]

The Epsom salt is a one-time flush followed with plenty of fresh water and then some charcoal slurry. Too much charcoal causes constipation and Epsom salt is a laxative and too much will dehydrate them.

 

[Cayuga5391]

I feel so stupid and guilty. This is my first time owning ducks but I should have known better I just want thinking about it. I'm so mad at myself.

 

[Cayuga5391]

Okay thanks that is good to know.